Real-time scrotal ultrasound with a water bath: comparison of results using 5 and 8 MHz. transducers

Ultrasound of the scrotum was performed in 32 patients with a water bath technique plus small parts (8 MHz.) real-time and 5 MHz. real-time sector scanners. The combination of the 2 modalities was evaluated for accuracy in differentiating intratesticular from extratesticular processes. Sensitivity and specificity were 100 and 95.4 per cent, respectively. In addition, evaluation of the gain in diagnostic confidence and/or accuracy afforded by the addition of small parts (8 MHz.) scans to 5 MHz. real-time imaging was performed. Small parts scanning added significantly to diagnostic confidence of examinations. Water bath scanning in conjunction with the use of both transducers provided excellent ease and diagnostic accuracy in the performance of scrotal ultrasound.